A Chill in the Air
In September we feel a chill in the air at times. The blustery wind catches us off guard. The same thing happens in relationships when we encounter people that we know. Sometimes, it would appear out of nowhere, there is a coolness. What happened? Have I offended someone?
At times it is only that the person is having a bad day and their usually warm personality is dampened. We have to allow for that. If it continues, then it is our responsibility to try to see what happened. If there is something that we have done, amends must be made. People are worth it. Even if they are just casual friends, they are worth it.
I want to endeavor to do this. It is always a work in progress. (If you ever open your mouth and say a word, you have to opportunity to hurt someone even if it is not your intention...be careful.)
I have heard it said that if you say few words you are more likely not to say things you shouldn't. That may be true, but my feeling is that if you say no words, it leaves people the option of trying to read your mind. Be careful for one another. Love genuinely. It will go well.
I want you to meet Jeanette Morgan, author.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
The Voice That Must Be Heard: Awakening your Heart , Mind and Spirit through the Power of Divine Revelation
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I've been a Christian for 10 years and struggled with my identity for a lot of years. I worked for a big software company before God called me to be home and raise my children. It was during that time, I struggled personally, and financially and yet while I struggled and went through deliverance and healing I also became a better me through understanding God's grace and discovering my identity in Him.
My intimacy and friendship with God grew and solidified in my life. My faith has been stretched so much I believe he has made me a more authentic and transparent person. What you see is what you get and I have no desire to wear a religious mask. I'm goofy at times and love to laugh. I'm imperfect but very passionate about the Holy Spirit and God's love for His people. I'm learning everyday that I was designed the way I am for a purpose and I don't need to change who I am ultimately, I just need to abide in who He is! He smooths out my rough edges and enhances my good fruits.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I didn't. It was a treasure God had placed deep inside me and He brought it to the surface one day and I just began to write the revelations he was downloading to my spirit through his word. never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined I would be a published author someday. God's dreams are so much bigger than ours. We often see limitations in our giftings where God sees abundance.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I believe I am a simple writer delivering simple yet powerful revelatory understanding of what God wants his true children to know. When you read my book you will get a sense that I am having a conversation with you one to one and that it speaks directly to you.
5. Are you a reader?
I absolutely love to read. It's one of my favorite passions. Especially reading anything having to do with God. I love hearing more and more about Him and the Kingdom of Heaven
6. What are you reading right now?
Kris Valloton and Bill Johnson's-The Supernatural ways of Royalty
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I am currently working on two more books! One is about Spirit and Truth and how when coupled together brings Life. We were never meant to just have one or the other as they are a dynamic duo and the Church must have both in order to produce life within the Body of Christ. The other one is about dreams and how sometimes we can have the craziest dreams and we are quick to discount them as a bad pizza dream but often God is really providing a lot of counsel and wisdom to his people through his language of dreams.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I would say my biggest obstacles to writing would be the demands of my household. As a stay at home mom with three little ones, ages 7, 5 and 18 months it can be difficult to get that time to write. But honestly God is so gracious with me. He downloads his revelation so quickly and I find myself writing a page or two within 20-30 minutes. I did however write my first book late at night or in the middle of the night while my family slept. That was the time I could have intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit without being distracted. But again God was so faithful to give me a lot in a short amount of time because he knew what my limitations were and the responsibilities I had as a wife and mother to my family.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Do you feel as if you’re wandering in desert places? Are there times in your spiritual walk when you feel frustrated, confused, and exhausted? If you have, then be still and listen for The Voice That Must Be Heard. Author Jeanette Morgan shares a God-sent collection of revelations from the Father of Creation that expresses his love and grace for his children, dispensing wisdom to experience all that humankind was created for—his glory. The revelations in this Holy Spirit-inspired book will help to bring clarity, encouragement, understanding, and knowledge in a grace-infused manner.
The Voice that Must Be Heard will ignite the fire in you once again to continue on your journey of faith, healing, and deliverance and to grow into deeper intimacy and greater freedom with Jesus.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book can be purchased at Tate Publishing, BN.com, borders.com, and amazon.com.
I can be contacted at: jeanettecmorgan@yahoo.com or my facebook fan page:http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Voice-That-Must-Be-Heard-Jeanette-C-Morgan/236490558461?ref=mf
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Monday, September 13, 2010
Friday, September 10, 2010
Singing With Jesus
A year or so ago as I went to sleep I whispered something like "I love you , Lord."
Towards morning I had a vivid dream.
I heard a man's baratone voice singing so beautifully. It was like a love song...only not really. I knew he was singing to my friend, Rhonda. I soon realized that it was Jesus' voice. I was so happy for Rhonda.
She sang back..now she sings so well...it blessed me so much. He sang with her. Tears were in my eyes because of the joy I felt and was so glad for her.
The voice came close to my ear and was saying things like, "I love you and I have chosen you to love..." I realized that I felt His breath on my cheek and Jesus was singing to me. I threw back my head and sang with a strong and wonderful voice (that I do not naturally possess) I felt the song start out of my toes and move through my body and the top of my head. I knew that I was singing with every fiber of my being. I held nothing back. "Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. Open the eyes of my heart. I want to see You. I want to see YOU." (That song was brand new to me at the time)
He began singing back to me and I joined in with a song I didn't know. It was pure worship. I sang so hard that I was spent, but new vigor returned to my body as I sang with Him. We sang together a long time.
I awoke and felt His Presence in the room. I was softly humming and had such joy rushing out of me. I felt peace and strength all day. Every time I think about it, the thrill rushes over me again.
During the next week I began listening to a preaching tape. The speaker, Graham Cook, said something about the Lord singing over us. He then sang a song that was inspired from the Lord called, "Sing Over Me Again". I just knelt down in my living room and worshipped about the goodness and kindness of God.
I share this with you today, because I know you need to know that Jesus loves you and sings over you. He wants you to be encouraged by his goodness and kindness. He always wants to hear whatever you have to say. He really is listening.
Towards morning I had a vivid dream.
I heard a man's baratone voice singing so beautifully. It was like a love song...only not really. I knew he was singing to my friend, Rhonda. I soon realized that it was Jesus' voice. I was so happy for Rhonda.
She sang back..now she sings so well...it blessed me so much. He sang with her. Tears were in my eyes because of the joy I felt and was so glad for her.
The voice came close to my ear and was saying things like, "I love you and I have chosen you to love..." I realized that I felt His breath on my cheek and Jesus was singing to me. I threw back my head and sang with a strong and wonderful voice (that I do not naturally possess) I felt the song start out of my toes and move through my body and the top of my head. I knew that I was singing with every fiber of my being. I held nothing back. "Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. Open the eyes of my heart. I want to see You. I want to see YOU." (That song was brand new to me at the time)
He began singing back to me and I joined in with a song I didn't know. It was pure worship. I sang so hard that I was spent, but new vigor returned to my body as I sang with Him. We sang together a long time.
I awoke and felt His Presence in the room. I was softly humming and had such joy rushing out of me. I felt peace and strength all day. Every time I think about it, the thrill rushes over me again.
During the next week I began listening to a preaching tape. The speaker, Graham Cook, said something about the Lord singing over us. He then sang a song that was inspired from the Lord called, "Sing Over Me Again". I just knelt down in my living room and worshipped about the goodness and kindness of God.
I share this with you today, because I know you need to know that Jesus loves you and sings over you. He wants you to be encouraged by his goodness and kindness. He always wants to hear whatever you have to say. He really is listening.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Eyvonna Rains
What is an author?
I am like most of you, I have had a very different idea of what an author looks like. Most of the time I do not resemble the image I have in my mind.
I have met a boat-load of authors this year and I can tell you that they are, for the most part, very warm and kind people that have stuck their neck out to let people see into a part of their heart.
I think that writing down words for other people to read makes the writer vulnerable in some ways. The secrets are unveiled.
In writing, I have discovered things about myself that I had never known before. I am forced to have an opinion on issues that I would rather shove under the rug, but if they are important they have to be examined.
Know this, authors care about what you think of their writing. If something inspires you, please go through the effort to tell the writer that it meant something to you. A word of encouragement is sometimes the only thing that keeps writers writing.
Today I want you to hear what author, Eyvonna Rains has to say.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Sleep, My Child by Eyvonna Rains
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I started a poetry club because I love to share my poems with others and hear what they have written, as well.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I started writing poetry and sharing it with people and got a lot of good feedback. I love when an idea for a poem or a story strikes me and I go into that dreamy world where nothing else exists and just write. It's euphoric.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My point of view is different. It may not be earth-shattering and brand new, but it's mine. I have learned that there is no one else just like me and I think that's great.
5. Are you a reader?
Absolutely! I love stories. You could say that I'm addicted.
6. What are you reading right now?
Till We Have Faces and Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis. The first is my favorite and I'm reading it to my husband because I want to share it with him.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have a book of Christian poetry and the story behind the poems. I hope to fill it with great photography to go with each one. I have finished a children's book tentatively titled, Color Makes Me Feel. It's about the psychology of color from a young perspective. (This idea came from my background in color consulting.) A Marriage Guide for the First Time Bride is a positive book full of advice from 'veteran married people' to a young bride from a Christian perspective. This is in response to a young engaged friend who was frightened by all of the bad things people kept telling her about marriage. She needed her positive friends with successful marriages to give her Godly advice. And there's more.......
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My children!! My boys are 5 and 3 and keep me hopping! I write during naps, after they go to bed and any time that I have some quiet time and I don't need to nap!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Sleep, My Child is a comforting picture book to encourage your child to drift into dreamland. The verses encourage imagination and the fantasy world of dreams. "When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet." Proverbs 3:24
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Sleep-My-Child-by-Eyvonna-Rains/217339737888?ref=ts
eyvonnarains@msn.com
I am like most of you, I have had a very different idea of what an author looks like. Most of the time I do not resemble the image I have in my mind.
I have met a boat-load of authors this year and I can tell you that they are, for the most part, very warm and kind people that have stuck their neck out to let people see into a part of their heart.
I think that writing down words for other people to read makes the writer vulnerable in some ways. The secrets are unveiled.
In writing, I have discovered things about myself that I had never known before. I am forced to have an opinion on issues that I would rather shove under the rug, but if they are important they have to be examined.
Know this, authors care about what you think of their writing. If something inspires you, please go through the effort to tell the writer that it meant something to you. A word of encouragement is sometimes the only thing that keeps writers writing.
Today I want you to hear what author, Eyvonna Rains has to say.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Sleep, My Child by Eyvonna Rains
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I started a poetry club because I love to share my poems with others and hear what they have written, as well.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I started writing poetry and sharing it with people and got a lot of good feedback. I love when an idea for a poem or a story strikes me and I go into that dreamy world where nothing else exists and just write. It's euphoric.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My point of view is different. It may not be earth-shattering and brand new, but it's mine. I have learned that there is no one else just like me and I think that's great.
5. Are you a reader?
Absolutely! I love stories. You could say that I'm addicted.
6. What are you reading right now?
Till We Have Faces and Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis. The first is my favorite and I'm reading it to my husband because I want to share it with him.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have a book of Christian poetry and the story behind the poems. I hope to fill it with great photography to go with each one. I have finished a children's book tentatively titled, Color Makes Me Feel. It's about the psychology of color from a young perspective. (This idea came from my background in color consulting.) A Marriage Guide for the First Time Bride is a positive book full of advice from 'veteran married people' to a young bride from a Christian perspective. This is in response to a young engaged friend who was frightened by all of the bad things people kept telling her about marriage. She needed her positive friends with successful marriages to give her Godly advice. And there's more.......
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My children!! My boys are 5 and 3 and keep me hopping! I write during naps, after they go to bed and any time that I have some quiet time and I don't need to nap!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Sleep, My Child is a comforting picture book to encourage your child to drift into dreamland. The verses encourage imagination and the fantasy world of dreams. "When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet." Proverbs 3:24
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Sleep-My-Child-by-Eyvonna-Rains/217339737888?ref=ts
eyvonnarains@msn.com
Thursday, September 2, 2010
As Big As My Head! by Heidi A. Mark
Memory Lane
I love to scrapbook. The only problem with that is that when I go to the old pictures of my sons, I find myself going back to those long ago days.
I worked very hard trying to be a good mother, but I find myself thinking of my failures when I look at those dear little faces. They were all boy and I was wanting to be a perfect mother, housewife, friend, daughter...you name it.
I didn't learn to say the word "no" for a very long time. I thought that I owed everyone a hunk of my time if they asked for it. I am afraid my boys had a harried mother because of it.
I write this, not to do anything but to remind you to say "no" to the things that are optional. By that, I mean to realize that not everything is going to fall apart if you do not do it. (With the exception of caring for your small children and husband.)
Your kids will rise up and call you "blessed" if they recall that your were there for them, you were regular with meals (I raised boys you know.) and they had clean clothes/socks to wear. It seems all the other stuff is secondary.
Give yourself some credit and don't get all of your worth from things that you do. Be there. Be available. Be fully attentive. It is not all in what you are doing.
Today I want you to meet Heidi A. Mark, my author friend.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
As Big As My Head! by Heidi A. Mark
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have been a teacher for 22 years and have loved every minute of teaching.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When I was in high school. I have always been a reader of children's books. When I got into high school, I started writing poetry and keeping journals.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Because my books are for young children ages 4-10, my strongest points are my ability to rhyme and my humorous flow.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I work in the library at my school as the learning resource specialist and read books for younger readers as they are my favorite, but like many light topic fiction books.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished The Lovely Bones.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have another book, but have not submitted it because I have not reached the 5000 number sold needed and do not have the money to have it published.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
rhyming and using a rhyming dictionary
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
As Big As My Head! is a true and humorous story about my son when he was in kindergarten trying to talk his grandma, my mom, into making huge chocolate chip cookies to take to school for his birthday snack. He gets his way and makes a HUGE treat all the kids love!
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
asbigasmyhead@verizon.net, Barnes and Noble, Borders, Targett and Tate Publishing websites, or on Facebook
I love to scrapbook. The only problem with that is that when I go to the old pictures of my sons, I find myself going back to those long ago days.
I worked very hard trying to be a good mother, but I find myself thinking of my failures when I look at those dear little faces. They were all boy and I was wanting to be a perfect mother, housewife, friend, daughter...you name it.
I didn't learn to say the word "no" for a very long time. I thought that I owed everyone a hunk of my time if they asked for it. I am afraid my boys had a harried mother because of it.
I write this, not to do anything but to remind you to say "no" to the things that are optional. By that, I mean to realize that not everything is going to fall apart if you do not do it. (With the exception of caring for your small children and husband.)
Your kids will rise up and call you "blessed" if they recall that your were there for them, you were regular with meals (I raised boys you know.) and they had clean clothes/socks to wear. It seems all the other stuff is secondary.
Give yourself some credit and don't get all of your worth from things that you do. Be there. Be available. Be fully attentive. It is not all in what you are doing.
Today I want you to meet Heidi A. Mark, my author friend.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
As Big As My Head! by Heidi A. Mark
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have been a teacher for 22 years and have loved every minute of teaching.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When I was in high school. I have always been a reader of children's books. When I got into high school, I started writing poetry and keeping journals.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Because my books are for young children ages 4-10, my strongest points are my ability to rhyme and my humorous flow.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I work in the library at my school as the learning resource specialist and read books for younger readers as they are my favorite, but like many light topic fiction books.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished The Lovely Bones.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have another book, but have not submitted it because I have not reached the 5000 number sold needed and do not have the money to have it published.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
rhyming and using a rhyming dictionary
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
As Big As My Head! is a true and humorous story about my son when he was in kindergarten trying to talk his grandma, my mom, into making huge chocolate chip cookies to take to school for his birthday snack. He gets his way and makes a HUGE treat all the kids love!
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
asbigasmyhead@verizon.net, Barnes and Noble, Borders, Targett and Tate Publishing websites, or on Facebook
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Linda Capo
Kid's Camp, Youth Camp, Campmeeting, West of 50s Camp
Does the mention of these bring back memories. Let me recreate some of them for you.
Kid's Camp:
"Get your elbows off the table Mr. Brad. Get your elbows off the table Mr. Brad. We have seen you do it twice and it isn't very nice. Get your elbows off the table Mr. Brad. Round the table you must go... You were naughty."
Youth Camp:
"I think 'he' likes you. Do you think he will ask you to go on the midnight hike with him?"
Campmeeting:
"How many years has it been? Are you still preaching/working in _________?"
West of 50's Camp:
"Boy, this food is good. I think 'he' likes you. Do you think 'he' will sit at our table for dinner?"
Bring back memories? There are other memories that are so precious in our hearts. Camps are the time we set aside to let God speak to us, change us, refresh us, and inspire us.
Remember praying at the altars until you knew you had a breakthrough? That happens at camp, no matter what age you are.
If you were unable to attend a camp this year, just take a moment/hour/day to listen for His Voice. Read your Bible and listen to music. Pray about the things you are almost afraid to pray about. You know, the tender things next to your heart...He wants to hear and answer those prayers. It is possible to be refreshed and renewed in one conversation with the Lord. He is powerful that way. Try it.
I would like to introduce you to author, Linda Capo.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Linda Capo; Out of the Wilderness
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
My first novel was published when I was 65 years old.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I co-authored a grammar and composition book in the early eighties, but that wasn't the kind of writing I really wanted to do. I started thinking about writing around that time, but I had four children and was too busy. The desire to write grew steadily and finally I carved out the time to do it.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods? I begin with scrabbled notes on absolutely everything I want to include in the book. Then I organize the notes, adding and deleting as I go, and create the chronology I want. I'm very organized and persistent, and I'm a fanatic about writing without mechanical errors.
5. Are you a reader? Yes. I don't know if it's possible to have writing outflow if nothing is flowing in.
6. What are you reading right now? I'm reading The Survivors Club, by Ben Sherwood, and The School of Seers, by Jonathan Welton.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I do have another book that's out there in literary agent/publisher cyber space, and I am clear on what I want to write next.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I've had life distruptions that made it impossible for me to write. However, at the moment, I am working on marketing Out of theWilderness , and it doesn't make sense to me to begin a new writing project until I've made more progress with the marketing. A writer friend of mine told me that even a little daily writing adds up, and that simple truth has helped me. Still, I do best with solid blocks of time. When it's possible to do this, I get up in the morning, run to turn the computer on, run to grab coffee, and I write all day and into the evening.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Tyler Jensen is a tough, rebellious high school junior riding a fast track to disaster. Even though he has seen through the example of hisfather how alcohol and drugs can ruin adult lives, he and his friends refuse to admit that the same consequencs of substance abuse will impact their own lives in the future.
Tyler, Coyote, Snoop, Bones, and Tooth--they all live for the excitement of Moto X, BMX, and partying, and Tyler believes he is invincible—until he crashes his motorcycle and lies helpless in a remote area of the Olympic National Park.
Frightened and alone, Tyler can't stop the onslaught of memories and the realization that everything in his life has led him to this point.
In Out of the Wilderness , Tyler is presented with a choice: he can continue on a path to destruction, trusting in his own strength to pull him through, or he can look to heaven and begin to build faith in the only One who can turn his life around. Loss, defeat, and fear can bereplaced with victory and faith; but it is a choice. Can Tyler learn to trust in his Savior and eventually come out of the wilderness? This is a must-read for today's youth, who need to understand that our heavenly Father does have a purpose and a plan for every life.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Go to my site, www.lindacapobooks.com, and click on the "contact Linda" button. (No blog. I thought about it, as well as about selling the book myself from my site, and I decided that when I write, I'd rather be writing for publication than being busy doing other things. I did, however, write two downloads, one for Christian rehab, and one for Christian home school students, that are offered on my site as
free downloads to supplement the book.
Does the mention of these bring back memories. Let me recreate some of them for you.
Kid's Camp:
"Get your elbows off the table Mr. Brad. Get your elbows off the table Mr. Brad. We have seen you do it twice and it isn't very nice. Get your elbows off the table Mr. Brad. Round the table you must go... You were naughty."
Youth Camp:
"I think 'he' likes you. Do you think he will ask you to go on the midnight hike with him?"
Campmeeting:
"How many years has it been? Are you still preaching/working in _________?"
West of 50's Camp:
"Boy, this food is good. I think 'he' likes you. Do you think 'he' will sit at our table for dinner?"
Bring back memories? There are other memories that are so precious in our hearts. Camps are the time we set aside to let God speak to us, change us, refresh us, and inspire us.
Remember praying at the altars until you knew you had a breakthrough? That happens at camp, no matter what age you are.
If you were unable to attend a camp this year, just take a moment/hour/day to listen for His Voice. Read your Bible and listen to music. Pray about the things you are almost afraid to pray about. You know, the tender things next to your heart...He wants to hear and answer those prayers. It is possible to be refreshed and renewed in one conversation with the Lord. He is powerful that way. Try it.
I would like to introduce you to author, Linda Capo.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Linda Capo; Out of the Wilderness
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
My first novel was published when I was 65 years old.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I co-authored a grammar and composition book in the early eighties, but that wasn't the kind of writing I really wanted to do. I started thinking about writing around that time, but I had four children and was too busy. The desire to write grew steadily and finally I carved out the time to do it.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods? I begin with scrabbled notes on absolutely everything I want to include in the book. Then I organize the notes, adding and deleting as I go, and create the chronology I want. I'm very organized and persistent, and I'm a fanatic about writing without mechanical errors.
5. Are you a reader? Yes. I don't know if it's possible to have writing outflow if nothing is flowing in.
6. What are you reading right now? I'm reading The Survivors Club, by Ben Sherwood, and The School of Seers, by Jonathan Welton.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I do have another book that's out there in literary agent/publisher cyber space, and I am clear on what I want to write next.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I've had life distruptions that made it impossible for me to write. However, at the moment, I am working on marketing Out of theWilderness , and it doesn't make sense to me to begin a new writing project until I've made more progress with the marketing. A writer friend of mine told me that even a little daily writing adds up, and that simple truth has helped me. Still, I do best with solid blocks of time. When it's possible to do this, I get up in the morning, run to turn the computer on, run to grab coffee, and I write all day and into the evening.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Tyler Jensen is a tough, rebellious high school junior riding a fast track to disaster. Even though he has seen through the example of hisfather how alcohol and drugs can ruin adult lives, he and his friends refuse to admit that the same consequencs of substance abuse will impact their own lives in the future.
Tyler, Coyote, Snoop, Bones, and Tooth--they all live for the excitement of Moto X, BMX, and partying, and Tyler believes he is invincible—until he crashes his motorcycle and lies helpless in a remote area of the Olympic National Park.
Frightened and alone, Tyler can't stop the onslaught of memories and the realization that everything in his life has led him to this point.
In Out of the Wilderness , Tyler is presented with a choice: he can continue on a path to destruction, trusting in his own strength to pull him through, or he can look to heaven and begin to build faith in the only One who can turn his life around. Loss, defeat, and fear can bereplaced with victory and faith; but it is a choice. Can Tyler learn to trust in his Savior and eventually come out of the wilderness? This is a must-read for today's youth, who need to understand that our heavenly Father does have a purpose and a plan for every life.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Go to my site, www.lindacapobooks.com, and click on the "contact Linda" button. (No blog. I thought about it, as well as about selling the book myself from my site, and I decided that when I write, I'd rather be writing for publication than being busy doing other things. I did, however, write two downloads, one for Christian rehab, and one for Christian home school students, that are offered on my site as
free downloads to supplement the book.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Hope for Recovery
I’m a licensed belief therapist, an author and speaker. All that came about because of a long bout with grief. There were 11 deaths of immediate family members in a short span of time, at the time I wrote my first book, “One Foot on a Banana Peel.” But there were also things happening in LIFE that took my breath away. Those were even more difficult, and could have destroyed me and my family. I found several interesting things during the time of research for this work. I was startled to find out how many people were suffering from grief and/or depression. Sooooo many! Another thing I was surprised at was that many believed that grief and depression are two totally separate entities. It was said that grief is only suffered at the death of a loved one. This is just not true, and it’s not Biblical either. I do realize that there can be a clinical depression that is deeper than “normal” (whatever “normal" is these days), but one thing I found out about this total separation between the two was that people were not able to connect with HOPE, or a recovery, because they didn’t know what it was they were dealing with! Knowing what the problem is, is half the battle … right? There IS hope! And there can be recovery! I’m living proof!
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Step Away From the "Best Sellers"!
When going to a book store or looking on Amazon.com, take a moment and step away from the "Best Sellers". Why? You may be overlooking some really good books by beginning authors. It is very difficult to break through the pack and become a "best selling" author when there are one million book titles produced each year in the United States.
Many of the books making the list are there, not for the content of the book, but for the popularity of the author. Unless an author is a celebrity, many readers will not give a book a second look. While they may be great books, there are other books out there to look at.
If you area an avid reader, take the time to go to book fairs and book stores and make it a point to meet the authors at their booth. Many of them have great personal stories of how their book(s) came to be published. These beginning authors will devote time to converse with you. They will be happy to sign your book purchases also.
After reading the book you have purchased, please do not forget to review it on one of the major book sites on the internet. Barnesandnoble.com, goodreads.com, amazon.com and others are a good choice. If you really would like to be an encouragement, send an email or note to the author. Encouragement goes a long way. After all, you are the reason writers write.
God bless you.
Many of the books making the list are there, not for the content of the book, but for the popularity of the author. Unless an author is a celebrity, many readers will not give a book a second look. While they may be great books, there are other books out there to look at.
If you area an avid reader, take the time to go to book fairs and book stores and make it a point to meet the authors at their booth. Many of them have great personal stories of how their book(s) came to be published. These beginning authors will devote time to converse with you. They will be happy to sign your book purchases also.
After reading the book you have purchased, please do not forget to review it on one of the major book sites on the internet. Barnesandnoble.com, goodreads.com, amazon.com and others are a good choice. If you really would like to be an encouragement, send an email or note to the author. Encouragement goes a long way. After all, you are the reason writers write.
God bless you.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Kindness
I think that the word "kind" is one of the most powerful words in the English language. When you hear that word what other words come to mind:
thoughtful
selfless
gentle
sweet
peaceful
good
precious
Powerful
What! "Powerful"??? Yes, to be kind is a powerful thing. It shuts the mouths of angry people. "A soft answers turns away wrath." People blink when harsh words are met with gentle remarks.
I have been on a quest for several months now to make myself aware of the kindness of God to me every day. I know about the big things like Salvation, healing and other monumental attributes to the kindness of God. But...what about the little touches of his hand everyday.
It reminds me of kissing my grandkids on the forehead for no real reason except that I love them. I remember being very discouraged one morning while going to work. I headed up the windy road to the highway and right before my eyes was the most perfect sunrise I have ever seen in my life.
I took it! Yes, it didn't belong to anyone else but me. It was God kissing me on the forehead and telling me that the day would turn out ok.
I urge you to look for the kindnesses of God throughout your day. It makes for a happier life.
I would like to introduce you to an author friend of mine, Jed Wright.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Jed Wright Wake Up, O Sleeper
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
When the next book will be out?
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
High school in English class
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
descriptive and easy to read
5. Are you a reader?
yes
6. What are you reading right now?
Anna Karenina by Tolstoy
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
the sequel to my first book
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
too busy
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Jack Wilson found himself riding in the back of a pickup truck wondering how everything could have gone so wrong. He looked up the road and caught a glimpse of the strange, enclosed city looming in the distance. His father had agreed to leave the safety of their secluded cabin in the mountains and travel hundreds of miles with him to try and find Lori. It had been over two years since he saw her last. Jack loved her desperately but had no idea how she felt toward him. They had prepared for months, planning out every detail—or so he had thought.
Now Jack’s father was dead, the plan was totally shot, and he was making it up as he went along with his life in the balance. He had four days to infiltrate the city, find Lori, and escape before he would surely be discovered and killed. He couldn’t have dreamed how the next four days and a mysterious letter from his father would forever change his life.
Wake Up, O Sleeper is a page-turning thrill ride that you won’t be able to put down. The shocking ending will leave you asking: “Am I awake or asleep?”
“Jed Wright has written an intriguing and exciting novel and…has taught some important truths about culture, love, commitment and the Christian faith.”
-Dr. Steve Brown, President, Key Life Network, Orlando, FL
"…takes you on an exciting adventure like no other with many twists and turns. It encourages and gives hope to the reader."
Aaron Small, former New York Yankees pitcher, 10-0 as a starter in 2005
“Wake Up, O Sleeper is a contagious and inspiring read.”
-Dr. Jerry Russell, Pastor Fairview UMC
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.website ishttp://jedwright.tatepublishing.net
email address is
jedwrightauthor@gmail.com
thoughtful
selfless
gentle
sweet
peaceful
good
precious
Powerful
What! "Powerful"??? Yes, to be kind is a powerful thing. It shuts the mouths of angry people. "A soft answers turns away wrath." People blink when harsh words are met with gentle remarks.
I have been on a quest for several months now to make myself aware of the kindness of God to me every day. I know about the big things like Salvation, healing and other monumental attributes to the kindness of God. But...what about the little touches of his hand everyday.
It reminds me of kissing my grandkids on the forehead for no real reason except that I love them. I remember being very discouraged one morning while going to work. I headed up the windy road to the highway and right before my eyes was the most perfect sunrise I have ever seen in my life.
I took it! Yes, it didn't belong to anyone else but me. It was God kissing me on the forehead and telling me that the day would turn out ok.
I urge you to look for the kindnesses of God throughout your day. It makes for a happier life.
I would like to introduce you to an author friend of mine, Jed Wright.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Jed Wright Wake Up, O Sleeper
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
When the next book will be out?
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
High school in English class
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
descriptive and easy to read
5. Are you a reader?
yes
6. What are you reading right now?
Anna Karenina by Tolstoy
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
the sequel to my first book
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
too busy
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Jack Wilson found himself riding in the back of a pickup truck wondering how everything could have gone so wrong. He looked up the road and caught a glimpse of the strange, enclosed city looming in the distance. His father had agreed to leave the safety of their secluded cabin in the mountains and travel hundreds of miles with him to try and find Lori. It had been over two years since he saw her last. Jack loved her desperately but had no idea how she felt toward him. They had prepared for months, planning out every detail—or so he had thought.
Now Jack’s father was dead, the plan was totally shot, and he was making it up as he went along with his life in the balance. He had four days to infiltrate the city, find Lori, and escape before he would surely be discovered and killed. He couldn’t have dreamed how the next four days and a mysterious letter from his father would forever change his life.
Wake Up, O Sleeper is a page-turning thrill ride that you won’t be able to put down. The shocking ending will leave you asking: “Am I awake or asleep?”
“Jed Wright has written an intriguing and exciting novel and…has taught some important truths about culture, love, commitment and the Christian faith.”
-Dr. Steve Brown, President, Key Life Network, Orlando, FL
"…takes you on an exciting adventure like no other with many twists and turns. It encourages and gives hope to the reader."
Aaron Small, former New York Yankees pitcher, 10-0 as a starter in 2005
“Wake Up, O Sleeper is a contagious and inspiring read.”
-Dr. Jerry Russell, Pastor Fairview UMC
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.website ishttp://jedwright.tatepublishing.net
email address is
jedwrightauthor@gmail.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Today's Wild Card author is:
and the book:
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
Publisher: FaithWords; Lrg edition (November 12, 2008)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
JOYCE MEYER is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A #1 New York Times bestselling author, she has written more than seventy inspirational books, including The Confident Woman, Look Great, Feel Great, and the entire Battlefield of the Mindfamily of books. She has also released thousands of audio teachings as well as a complete video library. Joyce's Enjoying Everyday Life® radio and television programs are broadcast around the world, and she travels extensively conducting conferences. Joyce and her husband, Dave, are the parents of four grown children and make their home in St. Louis, Missouri.Visit the author's website.
Product Details:
List Price: $16.99
Paperback: 240 pages
Publisher: FaithWords; Lrg edition (November 12, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446509396
ISBN-13: 978-0446509398
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
Introduction
Everyone has them: those days where nothing seems to get done, except maybe what you’ve added to your already lengthy to-do list. Are you tired most of the time? Are you spent? Do you find yourself wish- ing for a better day—a simpler day? Too many things compete for your limited resources of attention, energy, and time. You may be suffocat- ing and not even know it. If you feel like this, you’re not alone.
Most people today live complicated lives that leave them frustrated and confused, weary and worn out. But I have good news: your life does not have to be that way. You can choose a life of simplicity, fruitfulness, fulfillment, peace, and joy. I want to warn you, however, unless you are determined not to, you will do what everyone else does. You will get sucked up in the system and spend your life wishing things were different, never realizing you are, in fact, the only one who can change things. Unless we are resolute and remain undaunted in our quest for simplicity, we are destined for complication and frustration.
I recall a time when I was complaining to God about my schedule being absolutely insane. How could anyone be expected to do all I had in front of me? Then the realization hit me that I was the one who made my schedule and nobody could change it but me. You can spend your lives wishing things were different, but wishing won’t change anything. Smart decision making and decisive action is what changes things. If you picked up this book looking for change, are you willing to make a decision and follow it up with action?
I wasted many years hoping life would change and things would calm down until I finally realized life itself doesn’t change; in fact, it has the potential to get worse. I understood my only real option was to change my approach to life. I had to say no to another day of rushing around and feeling frustrated. I didn’t want the doctor giving me another pre- scription to mask another symptom of the real problem—stress.
In my search for simplicity, I have come to believe life can never be simple unless I learn to approach all things simply. It is my attitude toward each event in life that determines how easy or complex each situation will be. Perhaps life is complicated because people are compli- cated. Is it possible that life is not complicated, but rather, individuals complicate life in the way they approach it?
I discovered it wasn’t really life or circumstances or other people as much as it was me that needed to change. My problem wasn’t the problem—I was the problem! When you spend your life in frustration trying to change the world and everyone in it, you fail to realize it could be you just need to change your approach to life. It can be very easy for someone to live an entire lifetime and never entertain the notion that the way they do things is the real problem.
Have you ever attempted to have friends over for what you initially intended to be a simple afternoon of food, fellowship, and fun, but somehow, it turned into a complicated nightmare? I remember those days vividly. I’d be at church on Sunday and, without much forethought, invite three couples over for the following Sunday to a barbecue. My initial thought was hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, baked beans, potato chips, and iced tea. My motive was fellowship and fun, but by the time the guests arrived, I didn’t even want them there. Fun was not going to happen, at least not for me. Why? I turned my simple get- together into a nightmare of preparation, expensive food, and fourteen people instead of the original six. My complicated approach to life and my complicated thought process convinced me hot dogs and hamburg- ers weren’t nice enough so I bought steaks we could not afford. My potato chips turned into a huge bowl of homemade potato salad. The simple baked beans became four side dishes I labored over.
Insecure and wanting to impress everyone, I had to spend the week cleaning and getting everything in the house to the point where I thought it would be impressive. Of course, the lawn chairs were old, so I bought new ones. I got angry at Dave because I thought he wasn’t help- ing me enough, and by the time our friends arrived, I resented them, wished they hadn’t come, and had a miserable day of pretending to be the happy hostess when in reality I was frustrated and miserable.
I could not figure out why I wasn’t able to enjoy much of anything in life until God revealed to me I was killing my joy with complication. For years, I prayed God would change the people and circumstances around me when, in reality, He wanted to change me and my approach to life. He wanted me to simplify so, ultimately, He could be glorified.
Let me share with you 100 ways to approach living that can simplify your life and, in turn, release and increase your joy. I believe they will dramatically improve the quality of your everyday experience if you incorporate them into the way you do things. Jesus said He came so we might have and enjoy our life in abundance (see John 10:10). His prin- ciples are simple. Faith is simple! Trusting God is simple! A childlike approach to Him is simple! The plan of salvation is simple!
Jesus offers us a “new way of living,” and I believe it is a simple, yet powerful way that enables us to enjoy everyday life. Are you ready to simplify your life? Are you ready to say good-bye to the complexities you’ve allowed to take over? Let’s get started.
Do One Thing at a Time
When we do things without truly focusing our minds on them, we immediately decrease our strength to do the work before us and do it well. By putting our hands to one thing and our mind to another, we divide the muscle behind our abilities and we make the task much more difficult. It’s like removing an egg yolk from the egg white—both can be used separately but the result isn’t as effective (or tasty) as it would be if we leave the egg whole. However, by directing all of our faculties to the one thing we are doing on a particular day, at that hour, at that moment, we find it much easier to do. The ability to concentrate and stay focused can only come from discipline.
The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6 to be anxious for nothing. Anxious people are always trying to live ahead of where they currently are. They spend today trying to figure out tomorrow and the result is the loss of simplicity. God expects us to trust Him with tomorrow just as He instructed the Israelites to do when they crossed the barren wil- derness, pressing toward the Promised Land.
Practice living one day at a time; give yourself—your thoughts, your conversation, your energies, every part of you—to the day at hand.
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
1. Develop an ability to give yourself to what you are doing. You will sense an awareness enabling you to enjoy the current activity, instead of going through each day in a blur of activity and confusing thoughts which leave you drained and exhausted.
Do you fear you will not accomplish as much if you try to live this way? It’s true you may not do as much, but you will also enjoy what you do a whole lot more. One key to simplicity is realizing that quality is far superior to quantity.
Everyone has them: those days where nothing seems to get done, except maybe what you’ve added to your already lengthy to-do list. Are you tired most of the time? Are you spent? Do you find yourself wish- ing for a better day—a simpler day? Too many things compete for your limited resources of attention, energy, and time. You may be suffocat- ing and not even know it. If you feel like this, you’re not alone.
Most people today live complicated lives that leave them frustrated and confused, weary and worn out. But I have good news: your life does not have to be that way. You can choose a life of simplicity, fruitfulness, fulfillment, peace, and joy. I want to warn you, however, unless you are determined not to, you will do what everyone else does. You will get sucked up in the system and spend your life wishing things were different, never realizing you are, in fact, the only one who can change things. Unless we are resolute and remain undaunted in our quest for simplicity, we are destined for complication and frustration.
I recall a time when I was complaining to God about my schedule being absolutely insane. How could anyone be expected to do all I had in front of me? Then the realization hit me that I was the one who made my schedule and nobody could change it but me. You can spend your lives wishing things were different, but wishing won’t change anything. Smart decision making and decisive action is what changes things. If you picked up this book looking for change, are you willing to make a decision and follow it up with action?
I wasted many years hoping life would change and things would calm down until I finally realized life itself doesn’t change; in fact, it has the potential to get worse. I understood my only real option was to change my approach to life. I had to say no to another day of rushing around and feeling frustrated. I didn’t want the doctor giving me another pre- scription to mask another symptom of the real problem—stress.
In my search for simplicity, I have come to believe life can never be simple unless I learn to approach all things simply. It is my attitude toward each event in life that determines how easy or complex each situation will be. Perhaps life is complicated because people are compli- cated. Is it possible that life is not complicated, but rather, individuals complicate life in the way they approach it?
I discovered it wasn’t really life or circumstances or other people as much as it was me that needed to change. My problem wasn’t the problem—I was the problem! When you spend your life in frustration trying to change the world and everyone in it, you fail to realize it could be you just need to change your approach to life. It can be very easy for someone to live an entire lifetime and never entertain the notion that the way they do things is the real problem.
Have you ever attempted to have friends over for what you initially intended to be a simple afternoon of food, fellowship, and fun, but somehow, it turned into a complicated nightmare? I remember those days vividly. I’d be at church on Sunday and, without much forethought, invite three couples over for the following Sunday to a barbecue. My initial thought was hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, baked beans, potato chips, and iced tea. My motive was fellowship and fun, but by the time the guests arrived, I didn’t even want them there. Fun was not going to happen, at least not for me. Why? I turned my simple get- together into a nightmare of preparation, expensive food, and fourteen people instead of the original six. My complicated approach to life and my complicated thought process convinced me hot dogs and hamburg- ers weren’t nice enough so I bought steaks we could not afford. My potato chips turned into a huge bowl of homemade potato salad. The simple baked beans became four side dishes I labored over.
Insecure and wanting to impress everyone, I had to spend the week cleaning and getting everything in the house to the point where I thought it would be impressive. Of course, the lawn chairs were old, so I bought new ones. I got angry at Dave because I thought he wasn’t help- ing me enough, and by the time our friends arrived, I resented them, wished they hadn’t come, and had a miserable day of pretending to be the happy hostess when in reality I was frustrated and miserable.
I could not figure out why I wasn’t able to enjoy much of anything in life until God revealed to me I was killing my joy with complication. For years, I prayed God would change the people and circumstances around me when, in reality, He wanted to change me and my approach to life. He wanted me to simplify so, ultimately, He could be glorified.
Let me share with you 100 ways to approach living that can simplify your life and, in turn, release and increase your joy. I believe they will dramatically improve the quality of your everyday experience if you incorporate them into the way you do things. Jesus said He came so we might have and enjoy our life in abundance (see John 10:10). His prin- ciples are simple. Faith is simple! Trusting God is simple! A childlike approach to Him is simple! The plan of salvation is simple!
Jesus offers us a “new way of living,” and I believe it is a simple, yet powerful way that enables us to enjoy everyday life. Are you ready to simplify your life? Are you ready to say good-bye to the complexities you’ve allowed to take over? Let’s get started.
Do One Thing at a Time
The feeling of being hurried is not usually the result of living a full life and having no time. It is, on the contrary, born of a vague fear that we are wasting our life. When we do not do the one thing we ought to do, we have no time for anything elseówe are the busiest people in the world.
ÓERIC HOFFER
Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection].
—Hebrews 12:2
When we do things without truly focusing our minds on them, we immediately decrease our strength to do the work before us and do it well. By putting our hands to one thing and our mind to another, we divide the muscle behind our abilities and we make the task much more difficult. It’s like removing an egg yolk from the egg white—both can be used separately but the result isn’t as effective (or tasty) as it would be if we leave the egg whole. However, by directing all of our faculties to the one thing we are doing on a particular day, at that hour, at that moment, we find it much easier to do. The ability to concentrate and stay focused can only come from discipline.
The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6 to be anxious for nothing. Anxious people are always trying to live ahead of where they currently are. They spend today trying to figure out tomorrow and the result is the loss of simplicity. God expects us to trust Him with tomorrow just as He instructed the Israelites to do when they crossed the barren wil- derness, pressing toward the Promised Land.
Practice living one day at a time; give yourself—your thoughts, your conversation, your energies, every part of you—to the day at hand.
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
1. Develop an ability to give yourself to what you are doing. You will sense an awareness enabling you to enjoy the current activity, instead of going through each day in a blur of activity and confusing thoughts which leave you drained and exhausted.
Do you fear you will not accomplish as much if you try to live this way? It’s true you may not do as much, but you will also enjoy what you do a whole lot more. One key to simplicity is realizing that quality is far superior to quantity.
The Blog Tour for "Nan's Journey" Begins July 23
It is time to play a Wild Card! Every now and then, a book that I have chosen to read is going to pop up as a FIRST Wild Card Tour. Get dealt into the game! (Just click the button!) Wild Card Tours feature an author and his/her book's FIRST chapter!
You never know when I might play a wild card on you!
Today's Wild Card author is:
and his/her book:
Tate Publishing & Enterprises (January 2, 2008)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Littau is a life-long resident of Perryton, TX. She met husband, Terry at the Apostolic Faith Bible College in Baxter Springs, Kansas in 1974. They married March 1, 1975 and reside on a small acreage near Perryton where they enjoy spending time with their family and friends. They raised three sons and now have three daughters-in-law and four grandchildren added to their family. They also enjoy visiting with their extended family located in Perryton, Clear Lake, Laverne, and Amarillo.
Author Elaine Littau is a busy woman who by profession is the church secretary for Harvest Time First Assembly of God Church in Perryton. Among other things she has led women’s groups and taught preschool, and was a mentor for the M.O.P.S. (Mothers of Preschoolers) group in her community. She has been active in Toastmasters and enjoys painting, crafts, and playing piano and organ. She was recently appointed to the Campus Education Improvement Committee for Wright Elementary in Perryton. She belongs to Christian Storytellers and Faith Writers writing groups.
“Nan’s Journey” was written over the course of several years. “A salvation message is at the core of the book.” Littau says. “If it weren’t for the Lord, I wouldn’t have been able to do this. I truly enjoy meeting new people.”
Littau is currently working on two other books that are continuations of “Nan’s Journey.” Book signings and speaking engagements are currently set up for venues in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Oregon.
Visit the author's website.
Product Details:
List Price: $12.99
Paperback: 188 pages
Publisher: Tate Publishing & Enterprises (January 2, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602478325
ISBN-13: 978-1602478329
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
Chapter One
It was late. The moon had risen and the night symphony was in full force. Crickets chirped at their rivals, the frogs, and dominated the night chorus. Only one sound in the forest was foreign—a whimper from under the ferns. At the base of the largest pine in the woods was a small form crying, moaning, and whimpering. Black hair, matted and dirty, hung in long ropes down the front of the tiny girl. She had been in this spot for hours. At least that is what it felt like to her. Stretching, she cried out in pain. The blood-covered welts burst open to bleed again. Her back was wet with blood, and her dress was torn and useless.
Why had she dared to speak to the woman that she was obliged to call mother in that way? She knew that talking was not allowed from children before chores were finished. The accusations being made by “Ma” were totally false and she could not let Elmer take the blame for something she herself had forgotten to do. She shut her eyes tight against the memory, but it intruded anyway.
She had just gotten up to take the water off the stove to make up dishwater for the supper dishes. Ma had stepped outside the room to turn down her bed and prepare for sleep. When she reappeared in the kitchen, she realized that the wood supply next to the stove was low. Elmer was standing next to the table gathering the plates for washing. “Elmer, where is the wood you were supposed to bring up to the house?” Before he could answer, a hand had slapped him across his face. Getting back onto his feet and standing as tall as a five year old can stand, he looked her in the eye and said, “Ma, I was sick today, ‘member?”
“So, Elmer, you’re going to play up that headache trick again. Nan, didn’t your good for nothing Mama teach you people how to work, or are you just lazy?”
“Our Mama was good! Don’t you say mean things about her!” Nan yelled as her heart raced at the assault against her real Mama’s character.
“What about it, Elmer, are you like your weakling Mama or what?” Elmer’s eyes became very large and filled with tears. He could barely remember his real Mama, but when he did, he remembered soft kisses and sweet singing and a beautiful face. “I’m sorry; I’ll get the wood now.”
“No, Elmer, don’t. I promised you I’d do it today when your head was hurting, but I forgot. I’ll get it after I do these dishes.”
“Listen here, Nan, I’m the boss around here and Elmer will do what I say, when I say, and you will respect me.”
Nan’s eyes widened.
“Don’t look at me like that, little girl.”
Nan held her breath.
“Well, I guess you will be making a trip to the wood shed…with me!” Ma had grabbed her by the arm and jerked her along behind the shed. The strap was hanging there, waiting. Whippings were becoming more and more frequent. After Ma’s husband left, they had taken on a more cruel form. The last whipping was more like a beating. It took days for the marks to scab over and heal. Little Elmer had come in that night and brought some horse medicine from the barn and applied it to the oozing marks.
The next afternoon when the schoolteacher came over, Ma had already formulated a story. “Mrs. Dewey, we missed Nan and Elmer today at school. Are they sick?” Ma lied the first time in her life and said, “Well Miss Sergeant, since Mr. Dewey is going to be gone for another four weeks, I need more help around here to get things done. I’m holding the kids out until he gets back.” Week after week went by, and Mr. Dewey still hadn’t come home. Everyday Ma grew more and more angry. It became more and more impossible to please her. When she began hitting Elmer, it was too much. Nan had to do something— right or wrong; things couldn’t stay the way they were.
The coolness of the earth had settled into Nan’s bones. She stood silently for a minute and carefully crept up to the farmhouse. As she opened the door, she saw that Elmer was in the pallet at the foot of the stove next to her bedroll. Ma was asleep in her room. The door held open with a rock. Slowly she began peeling off the dress and the dried blood stuck to it. She reached for the old shirt she normally wore over her wounds and under her dress. She had washed it today. It had bloodstains on it, but it would keep her from ruining another dress. She retrieved the old work dress that she wore when chores were messier than usual; it was the only one left. She put it on swiftly and shook Elmer awake with her hand over his mouth. “Baby, we must leave. Do you understand? Stay quiet and I will get some stuff to take with us.”
She found large old handkerchief and began looking for food supplies. There was one sourdough biscuit and about a cup of cold brown beans. She located her tin cup and another rag. She would probably need that. Three matches were in the cup on the stove. She would just take two. Suddenly she heard a sound from Ma’s room. A scampering sound… just a rat. Ma turned over. Her breathing became deep and regular. For once Nan wished that Ma snored. She tied the handkerchief in a knot over the meager food supplies, grabbed their bedrolls, and slowly opened the door.
“Come on, Elmer. Can you carry this food? I’ll get your bedding. That’s a good boy. We must hurry!”
The cold air bit at their faces, but they walked bravely on.
“Elmer, we must go tonight so we can get as far away as we can before Ma wakes up and sees that we are gone.”
For the next half hour the pair walked in silence through the familiar woods past the graves on the hill. In one, a mother dearly loved, in another, an infant who had died the same day as his mother, and the third, a father that only Nan had memory of. Elmer was only two years old when Pa died in the logging accident. Nan snapped out of her reverie and urged Elmer on. Molasses, Pa’s good old workhorse, stood in the pasture. He skidded the logs Pa cut with his axe. His legs hadn’t healed quite right, but Mama hadn’t let Mr. Dewey kill him because he was all she had left of the husband of her youth. Molasses was a faithful friend to Nan and Elmer. He stood there and waited for them to mount him.
“Molasses, take us to…” Nan realized then that they had nowhere to go. Mrs. Dewey had said that they were ungrateful little imps who didn’t realize she and Mr. Dewey were taking care of them out of kindness, and they could easily be put into an orphanage. Nan didn’t know anything about orphanages except what Mrs. Dewey…uh, Ma had told her. “Molasses, just take us out of here.”
Why had she dared to speak to the woman that she was obliged to call mother in that way? She knew that talking was not allowed from children before chores were finished. The accusations being made by “Ma” were totally false and she could not let Elmer take the blame for something she herself had forgotten to do. She shut her eyes tight against the memory, but it intruded anyway.
She had just gotten up to take the water off the stove to make up dishwater for the supper dishes. Ma had stepped outside the room to turn down her bed and prepare for sleep. When she reappeared in the kitchen, she realized that the wood supply next to the stove was low. Elmer was standing next to the table gathering the plates for washing. “Elmer, where is the wood you were supposed to bring up to the house?” Before he could answer, a hand had slapped him across his face. Getting back onto his feet and standing as tall as a five year old can stand, he looked her in the eye and said, “Ma, I was sick today, ‘member?”
“So, Elmer, you’re going to play up that headache trick again. Nan, didn’t your good for nothing Mama teach you people how to work, or are you just lazy?”
“Our Mama was good! Don’t you say mean things about her!” Nan yelled as her heart raced at the assault against her real Mama’s character.
“What about it, Elmer, are you like your weakling Mama or what?” Elmer’s eyes became very large and filled with tears. He could barely remember his real Mama, but when he did, he remembered soft kisses and sweet singing and a beautiful face. “I’m sorry; I’ll get the wood now.”
“No, Elmer, don’t. I promised you I’d do it today when your head was hurting, but I forgot. I’ll get it after I do these dishes.”
“Listen here, Nan, I’m the boss around here and Elmer will do what I say, when I say, and you will respect me.”
Nan’s eyes widened.
“Don’t look at me like that, little girl.”
Nan held her breath.
“Well, I guess you will be making a trip to the wood shed…with me!” Ma had grabbed her by the arm and jerked her along behind the shed. The strap was hanging there, waiting. Whippings were becoming more and more frequent. After Ma’s husband left, they had taken on a more cruel form. The last whipping was more like a beating. It took days for the marks to scab over and heal. Little Elmer had come in that night and brought some horse medicine from the barn and applied it to the oozing marks.
The next afternoon when the schoolteacher came over, Ma had already formulated a story. “Mrs. Dewey, we missed Nan and Elmer today at school. Are they sick?” Ma lied the first time in her life and said, “Well Miss Sergeant, since Mr. Dewey is going to be gone for another four weeks, I need more help around here to get things done. I’m holding the kids out until he gets back.” Week after week went by, and Mr. Dewey still hadn’t come home. Everyday Ma grew more and more angry. It became more and more impossible to please her. When she began hitting Elmer, it was too much. Nan had to do something— right or wrong; things couldn’t stay the way they were.
The coolness of the earth had settled into Nan’s bones. She stood silently for a minute and carefully crept up to the farmhouse. As she opened the door, she saw that Elmer was in the pallet at the foot of the stove next to her bedroll. Ma was asleep in her room. The door held open with a rock. Slowly she began peeling off the dress and the dried blood stuck to it. She reached for the old shirt she normally wore over her wounds and under her dress. She had washed it today. It had bloodstains on it, but it would keep her from ruining another dress. She retrieved the old work dress that she wore when chores were messier than usual; it was the only one left. She put it on swiftly and shook Elmer awake with her hand over his mouth. “Baby, we must leave. Do you understand? Stay quiet and I will get some stuff to take with us.”
She found large old handkerchief and began looking for food supplies. There was one sourdough biscuit and about a cup of cold brown beans. She located her tin cup and another rag. She would probably need that. Three matches were in the cup on the stove. She would just take two. Suddenly she heard a sound from Ma’s room. A scampering sound… just a rat. Ma turned over. Her breathing became deep and regular. For once Nan wished that Ma snored. She tied the handkerchief in a knot over the meager food supplies, grabbed their bedrolls, and slowly opened the door.
“Come on, Elmer. Can you carry this food? I’ll get your bedding. That’s a good boy. We must hurry!”
The cold air bit at their faces, but they walked bravely on.
“Elmer, we must go tonight so we can get as far away as we can before Ma wakes up and sees that we are gone.”
For the next half hour the pair walked in silence through the familiar woods past the graves on the hill. In one, a mother dearly loved, in another, an infant who had died the same day as his mother, and the third, a father that only Nan had memory of. Elmer was only two years old when Pa died in the logging accident. Nan snapped out of her reverie and urged Elmer on. Molasses, Pa’s good old workhorse, stood in the pasture. He skidded the logs Pa cut with his axe. His legs hadn’t healed quite right, but Mama hadn’t let Mr. Dewey kill him because he was all she had left of the husband of her youth. Molasses was a faithful friend to Nan and Elmer. He stood there and waited for them to mount him.
“Molasses, take us to…” Nan realized then that they had nowhere to go. Mrs. Dewey had said that they were ungrateful little imps who didn’t realize she and Mr. Dewey were taking care of them out of kindness, and they could easily be put into an orphanage. Nan didn’t know anything about orphanages except what Mrs. Dewey…uh, Ma had told her. “Molasses, just take us out of here.”
Barnes & Noble Booksellers in Westminster CO
Great book signing in Colorado!
Mardel Bookstore in Littleton, CO
Booksigning - Elaine